Africa's Presence at the World Cup Takes a Dramatic Shift. A record number of African nations have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, a testament to the continent's growing football prowess. However, in a surprising move, several African countries have announced they will no longer support all of the continent's participating teams. The decision has left many in the football community scratching their heads, wondering what factors led to this sudden change in allegiance. As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the implications of this shift in support could have far-reaching consequences for African football and its relationships with international partners.


A record number of African nations are at the 2026 World Cup, but the continent no longer backs them all.